Malmaison Newcastle (Malmaison Hotel (Newcastle))

Member Name: SilkCutSilver

Product:	Malmaison Hotel (Newcastle)
Date:	26/01/09 (31 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Lovely setting, great location, nice rooms

Disadvantages: A bit tired, very 90's

I have stayed in Malmaison in Newcastle numerous times now on business and have enjoyed my stay, if been slightly disappointed.

I lived in Newcastle for nearly a decade and always wanted to stay in/eat in the Mal. It is without a doubt the most stylish hotel in the City Centre and pure indulgence to stay there when you live just down the road! I got my chance last year after moving to London when I had to attend a business event in Newcastle.

The Mal costs around £165 a night - I usually book on Expedia as I find they have the cheapest rates but the hotel also features on laterooms and other hotel sites so shop around. It is situated on the Quayside which is the redeveloped area on the Newcastle side of the Tyne. The views walking along towards the hotel are absolutely stunnnig, especially at night. I find it's very conveniently situated for transport as now the Quayside yellow bus goes from just along the quay up into the City centre and to the railway station.

As you step into the Mal it is like stepping into a cocoon - the music is soft, the looby is dimly lit and the walls are painted in dark purple. The furniture is decadent and luxurious and the long curved reception desk makes you feel you have arrived to pure luxury.

After checking in the lift takes you up into the hotel (complete with french lift voice telling you your floor so pay attention). The rooms I have stayed in vary -with by far the best one facing the Millenium Bridge with the most amazing powerful shower and slate tiled bathroom. Each room I have visited does boast beautiful rich decor and lovely free toiletries as well as little Malmaison touches like the DVD player and flatscreen TV.

Heading down for breakfast in the cold light of day the hotel decor reminds me of what a nightclub looks like without all the people and atmosphere of an evening - tired and a bit sleazy. Similarly having your breakfast in a sumptuosly decorated resturant also feels a bit wrong. The food itself is lovely, there isn't a huge amount of choice and the buffet is smaller, (the Hilton is still the best) but the smoked salmon and scrambled egg is without a doubt the best I have had.

This is a nice hotel, but each time I go I find it disappointing. When I was a student in Newcastle I thought this place was the height of luxury - and at that time it probably was. If only it would keep up with the times, it would definitely have the potential to be again.

Summary: Up your game Mal!